Mohamed Bin Zayed Foundation And Gates Foundation To Host Goalkeepers Event In Abu Dhabi

The Mohamed bin Zayed Foundation for Humanity and the Gates Foundation are collaborating to host Goalkeepers in Abu Dhabi. This event, dedicated to achieving the 17 Global Goals for Sustainable Development, will occur on 8th December 2025. It marks the first time Goalkeepers is held in the Middle East and North Africa, uniting changemakers with innovative ideas to advance these goals.

Goalkeepers was initiated by the Gates Foundation in 2017 to inspire progress towards the Global Goals, a set of objectives established by the United Nations in 2015. These goals aim to address issues like poverty, health, hunger, and education by 2030. The annual event includes a report, awards program, and a global community of individuals leading change.

Dr. Shamma Khalifa Al Mazrouei, Acting Director-General of the Mohamed bin Zayed Foundation for Humanity, expressed enthusiasm about hosting Goalkeepers Abu Dhabi. "Goalkeepers Abu Dhabi is a moment to celebrate the promise of human potential and to showcase ideas and individuals working to improve lives at scale," she stated. The event reflects both their commitment to human potential and UAE's leadership in building a brighter future.

Bill Gates, Chair of the Gates Foundation, shared his excitement about bringing Goalkeepers to Abu Dhabi. "I’m excited that Goalkeepers is coming to Abu Dhabi for the first time in December. We’re proud to partner with the Mohamed bin Zayed Foundation for Humanity, whose commitment to mothers’ and children’s health and to fighting infectious diseases is saving millions of lives," he said. Together, they aim to tackle some of the world's most pressing challenges.

The flagship Goalkeepers event traditionally takes place in New York alongside the United Nations General Assembly. It features live performances, storytelling, and discussions with past speakers like President Emmanuel Macron of France and Nobel laureate Malala Yousafzai. The event serves as a platform for networking and forming new partnerships while sharing knowledge.

This year’s edition in Abu Dhabi will bring together a diverse group of changemakers from around the world. They will develop fresh ideas and lead innovative work towards accelerating progress on global challenges. This gathering aims not only to inspire but also energise efforts towards achieving sustainable development goals globally.

By hosting this significant event in Abu Dhabi, both foundations highlight their dedication to addressing urgent global issues through collaboration and innovation. The focus remains on creating opportunities that foster human potential while ensuring a healthier future for all communities involved.

With inputs from WAM